Jose Alvarado

Jose Alvarado is a professional NBA point guard known for his defensive skills and ability to generate steals. Alvarado is nicknamed Grand Theft Alvarado for his knack for creating turnovers. He was named ACC Defensive Player of the Year at Georgia Tech, becoming the shortest player to receive the award. During his senior year, Alvarado and Moses Wright led Georgia Tech to an ACC title by defeating Florida State in the championship game of the ACC tournament. In high school, he recorded the first quadruple-double in school history with 18 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists and 10 steals.

Alvarado entered the NBA undrafted and signed a two-way contract with the New Orleans Pelicans, splitting time with the Pelicans and their NBA G League affiliate, the Birmingham Squadron. He gained attention for highlight clips of his backcourt steals, which contributed to his Grand Theft Alvarado nickname. According to GeniusIQ tracking, Alvarado recorded 71 backcourt steals since entering the NBA, ranking second in that span. His performance led to a full roster spot when his two-way deal was converted into a standard four-year, $6.5 million contract.

Alvarado contributed 18 points, two assists, one steal, and a game-winning shot en route to a tournament victory and a Rising Stars MVP, making him the first undrafted player in NBA history to win the award. Alvarado's campaign with New Orleans included career-high averages in points (10.3), rebounds (2.4), assists (4.6), and steals (1.3).

Internationally, Alvarado has represented Puerto Rico in global basketball competitions. He scored a game-high 23 points to lead Puerto Rico to a 79-68 victory over Lithuania in the championship game of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in San Juan. He was named TISSOT MVP of the tournament and was the second-leading scorer, averaging 16 points. A New York native with Puerto Rican ancestry, Alvarado also represented Puerto Rico's national team at the Paris Olympics.

Alvarado was traded to the New York Knicks, where he quickly connected with fans through his energy and defensive play. He advanced to the NBA Finals as the Knicks completed a sweep of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Alvarado's journey from undrafted prospect to Olympic competitor and NBA Finals participant highlights his determination and defensive prowess in professional basketball.